Guitar Hero On How a Chance Solo Over 80s Movie Score Became an All Time Classic | Professor Of Rock

Coming up, 80s guitar hero Steve Stevens who shredded and co-wrote many of Billy Idol’s greatest songs had his gear set up in a studio when film composer Harold Faltermeyer asked him to play a blazing solo for an upcoming movie starring Tom Cruise. The guitar virtuoso began to shred and within minutes he finished the song in 1 take and moved on to the next thing and forgot all about it. To him it was nothing.. well months later it became synonymous with one of the biggest blockbuster films ever in Top Gun and decades later it’s still killing it…. The Top Gun Theme is covered next in an exclusive interview.
Thank you to this Episode's Sponsor, Zenni Optical
Incredible Prices on New Glasses - bit.ly/ZenniOp...
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Executive Producer
Brandon Fugal
Honorary Producers
Keith Novak, Bill Soucy, Duff Gordon, Byrdman, Kristina Fejarang, Mark Glabinski, Jeffrey Thorn, Junal Garnett, Peggy Wolf, CharleyAnne,
Stephen Ahlbom
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Access To Backstage Content
Become a Patron - bit.ly/Professo...
Check Out My Hand Picked Selection Below
Professor's Store
- 100 Best Selling Albums amzn.to/3h3qZX9
- Ultimate History of 80s Teen Movie amzn.to/3ifjdKQ
- 80s to 90s VHS Video Cover Art amzn.to/2QXzmIX
- Totally Awesome 80s A Lexicon amzn.to/3h4ilrk
- Best In Ear Headphones (I Use These Every Day) amzn.to/2ZcTlIl
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Click here for Premium Content: bit.ly/SignUpF...
bit.ly/Faceboo...
bit.ly/Instagr...
#80s #vinyl #story
Hey music junkies Professor of Rock always her to celebrate the greatest artists and the greatest songs of all time. If you remember the day of going to the video store and spending more time trying to pick out a movie that the actual run time of the film you’ll dig this channel. 24-7 Nostalgia. Just subscribe below so that you never miss out on our daily history fest.. with interviews straight from the legends. Make sure to check out our additional footage on Patreon .com where you can also become an honorary produce.r And check out our new merch...
I’m really excited to bring you another episode from our series Revelations- where featured artists reveal rare stories about their biggest songs, along with fascinating insight about their careers.
On this installment of Revelations, we are going behind one of the most famous film instrumentals of the 80s with the man show ripped out a guitar solo for the ages. . Steve Stevens, Billy Idol’s guitar slinger who helped write many of Billy’s best hits, including Rebel Yell, Eyes Without a Face and Flesh For Fantasy was asked by Harold Faltermeyer to add some flair to catchy synth theme. This was in the middle of Billy Idol and Steve Stevens recording Vital Idol. Faltermeyer of course most famous for his international #1 hit Axel F. from the Beverly Hills Cop soundtrack that peaked at #3 here in the U.S.
The song would end up being the Anthem to a yet to be released film called Top Gun that would take the world by storm in the summer of 1986. It hard to believe that The Top Gun Theme would be considered for any film not called Top Gun but would you believe that the song was actually first conceived for the Chevy Chase classic FLETCH? The melody that has become as iconic as any film score or song was going to be used in a dream sequence for Chevy Chase in Fletch where he’s daydreaming about playing for the Los Angelas Lakers! but then as the story goes…Billy Idol happened to hear Faltermeyer messing around with it in the recording studio where Idol and Stevens were just next door. Billy casually walked in and said that’s great you should use it for Top Gun
In an interview with Red Bull Music Academy, Harold Faltermeyer told Red remembered that he had “no briefing” ahead of composing the Top Gun Anthem, the only direction he received was to imagine that the pilots “are like rock ‘n’ rollers in the sky”. he would go on to say that “It was the rare situation where I composed the theme before the movie was shot,” Apparently,.The Anthem saw it’s first action when the he was having dinner with Top Gun producers Don Simpson and Jerry Bruckheimer, who wanted to hear it. Faltermeyer told them that he hadn’t recorded it yet, but the two producers were insistent, so they went over to Faltermeyer’s studio - with actor Tom Cruise as well - and he sat down at a piano and played it for the three of them.

[@ProfessorofRock]

There is a spammer on here pretending to be me, saying you've won a prize. Please ignore this. Always look for the checkmark next to my name to know it's us. I have reported this person. I apologize for the inconvenience.

[@Nickachu_NJ]

Yeah, I almost fell for it. So sad, but thanks for the heads up bro.

[@scottymoondogjakubin4766]

good ! I hope the youtube police catch this perpetrator !

[@phranerphamily]

Figured it wasn't you ☺️

[@fifthof1795]

He/she/it/they/whatever, responded to a post from me too. I suppose some people are dumb enough to fall for it.

[@adolfsson2705]

I noticed that.and now scam got on you..

[@johnathandavis3693]

Steve Stevens is a VASTLY underrated guitarist. He appeared in the 80's, and I can't think of another with more technical skill or a more innovative sound in that decade.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Very true.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

He’s amazing!

[@seanswinton6242]

Agree. I loved his acoustic solo album "Flamenco-A-Go-Go" and his Atomic Playboys CD. Frankly I wish there was more.

[@stoneysdead689]

How about The Edge, Steve Lukather, Randy Rhodes, Eddie Vanhalen, Alex Lifeson, or Tom Morello? Come on man- Steve was great, I like his playing but- he isn't remembered amongst this list of legends for a reason- he just never put anything out there on the same level as what they did.

[@sumdumguy2648]

@@stoneysdead689 Tom Morello is an innovator but he isn't a great guitarist.

[@MatrixGuitar]

I saw that Billy Idol was coming to town where I live, and I told my wife that if Steve Stevens was still playing with him, we were going. He was, and we were privileged to see them live.

[@jeffreyhutchins6527]

Steve Stevens' intro to rebel yell is amazing. He is playing 1/8notes on the low end with his thumb and 16th notes with on the high E and B Stings with his Pink and Ring fingers simultaneously. So difficult to do.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I cannot imagine doing that so deftly!

[@DoyleFM]

😄 I've always thought that was a keyboard! I had no clue it was a guitar! Uh-MAZING! 😮 🇺🇸

[@ultrajazz5335]

It’s not easy to do, takes a lot of practice but he plays it so effortlessly.

[@RobinDale50]

I can barely play that, and very badly, it is a tricky thing. I can get it eventually, but man it takes some work!

[@rogerdodger8415]

Not to discount his playing, but every rock player listens to classical guitar after hours. That's where the real techniques lie.

[@eightiesmusic1984]

Most of Billy Idol's songs in the eighties are great, especially 'Eyes Without A Face', an absolute classic. I was so naive in 1984 that the line about reading murder books, trying to stay hip seemed dark and frightening just because it referenced crime. Murder and violent crime in the UK were rare then and it was a sheltered existence. By the end of the decade the rates of both had increased dramatically and a relatively innocent era from the 1950s through to the eighties was over, never to return. As well as the great music of the eighties some of the nostalgia for it must also be memories of a simpler world. Billy Idol is one of the most intelligent pop stars to emerge in the eighties with a quick wit and seems like a decent person in interviews.

[@ProfessorofRock]

WE will feature him on here soon.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

@@ProfessorofRock Looking forward to it! “Eyes Without A Face” is an amazing song. Ask him some questions about that.

[@robertcronin6603]

He does...seems like a decent, humble guy who doesn't take himself too seriously.

[@leahcimnamttug7186]

I’m on a bus on a psychedelic trip, reading murder books, tryin to stay hip. Thinkin of you, you’re not there, so, say your prayhaas, sayhay yourhor prayas. Hooked on phonics worked for me🤤

[@fifthof1795]

EWAF is a monumentely brilliant song.

[@ryant3600]

Steve Stevens was one of those guys back in the day that wasn't really a stand out "shredder" cause he played w/ Billy Idol, but his work on Top Gun got him some acknowledgment. For me though it was his work on Vince Neil's solo album Exposed where he let everyone know just how good of a player he really was.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Good call. I need to go back listen again. It's been awhile.

[@jagatiello6900]

His solo album Flamenco a go-go is great as well...

[@ryant3600]

@@jagatiello6900 That and the Atomic Playboys and memory crash of course.. and of course let's not forget Michael Jacksons Dirty Diana

[@dagoelius]

That album was phenomenal.

[@georgiarn3915]

Loved the Vince Neil solo album, Exposed. Saw them live in 1994 in a small club. Amazing show. I was right against the stage below Steve Stevens and he put on a helluva show.

[@brianpollock7700]

40 years ago this week, Rocky III opened and Survivor’s “Eye of the Tiger” rocketed up the charts. An interview with Frankie Sullivan would be great. If you could get Jim Peterik as well, you’d achieve demigod status.

[@DC05570]

Your wish is granted😉: “Eye of the Tiger”👁🐅: kzbin.info/www/bejne/oqDMXpyiZ6isaMU “Burning Heart”🔥🧡: kzbin.info/www/bejne/hJ6tdamOm8aroLs

[@daBEAGLE1017]

Steves playing blew my away when i seen him play with Vince Neil when they opened for VanHalen in the early 90s.

[@exodusfromearth6883]

Exposed was a great one.

[@ProfessorofRock]

He's an extremely gifted player.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I first discovered Steve’s talents while listening to his work on Billy Idol’s stuff. He’s a legend. What an extremely talented person.

[@daBEAGLE1017]

@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 same. Billy Idol was the sheet in the 80s.

[@davecarroll4163]

Saw Top Gun Maverick on Thursday night. It was everything I could hope for after all this time. They did not disappoint. It was so good to hear the Top Gun Theme played. Steve is a amazing guitar player and such a humble guy. In the small world that we live in, I have a good friend who's friends sister is married to Steve. I saw Steve and Billy last summer about 10 feet from the stage. Steve played his solo from the Top Gun Theme. It gave me chills. Thanks again for another great video, Adam!

[@ProfessorofRock]

That's amazing. Thanks for sharing!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

That’s so awesome!

[@TheSlowoldman]

I saw it Friday afternoon, well worth the 36 years to wait for the sequel..... and yes, to hear Top Gun Anthem fade into Danger Zone open up Top Gun Maverick just gave me goosebumps.... do yourselves a favor go see it at the theater with Dolby Atmos or whatever the best sound you can get..... Hardly any CG effects either.....

[@freethebirds3578]

I'm so glad to know they kept the music, because it music made the movie the first time and it would have been wrong without it.

[@CxOrillion]

@@TheSlowoldman It's just pure nostalgia and it's awesome.

[@duromusabc]

Maverick- Ghost rider requesting a fly by - “Negative ghost rider the pattern is full” . Maverick- It’s time to buzz the tower Whenever I have a cup of hot coffee I think of the iconic fly by scene 😂

[@ProfessorofRock]

Ha ha. So classic!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Me too! I remember this!

[@johnathandavis3693]

Billy Idol's "Eyes Without A Face" is a good example, an other wise kind of sleepy, dreamy song, RIPPED in the center break with Steve's BUZZSAW guitar- to me, it MAKES the song. Steve's sense of rhythm, he's really driving the song in a percussive way...

[@ProfessorofRock]

Eyes Without A Face is a masterpiece. Much of that has to do with Steve's playing.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

It’s one of my favorite songs of the 80s. Steve’s work on that song is what makes it wonderful.

[@jacklarson6281]

yeah, Eyes without a Face was a total sleeper. starts off slow.., but just keeps building in intensity till Steve rips it to shreds with his solo as Billy goes off on what sounds like an ad-lib vocal.

[@waltrohrbach2459]

right, absolute monster of a song, that beautiful dreamy part with unsuspected change to that heavy rythm guitar, turning the slow ballad upside down with rythmic 16th and 8th riffing plus solo on top. almost unparalleled. 80s Guitar sounds are unsurpassed anyway, need time machine, music is the only one.

[@shruggzdastr8-facedclown]

To me, Steve Stevens is one of those truly under-appreciated guitarists of the R&R era. While not nearly as flashy and acrobatic as many of his contemporaries in hard rock or metal bands of the '80s, he had more true virtuoso skills than guitarists of most punk bands of that generation, but he didn't go overboard -- just gave an already rocking track a l'il extra sonic flavor is what his gift was. He was the secret ingredient which helped Idol, and his solo career band, appeal to the mainstream audience of those times.

[@volkerjansen3901]

I always loved the emotional arc of Steve's playing in this song. He starts playing the theme totally straight, then in further repetitions puts more and more variations in, sounding like a conflict or struggle, leading to the bridge, and then coming through and getting back to the straight version ... Always loved that!

[@jamesbarbour8400]

Another tune that does the same sort of thing, is Ravels' 'Bolero', which repeats the same musical phrase over and over, but continually builds upon the basic one - absolute classic - literally. Have to admit, the theme to 'Top Gun' just IS the 80s - totally iconic and Stevie Stevens doesn't get the recognition he deserves, as undisputiably one of the best guitar players ever. So good, but yet so humble, what a guy.

[@TheCuratorofThrift]

Watched Top Gun last week and my wife started going through the steps of her gymnastics routine as soon as the film started as it was her song for her routine. I asked her - "How the heck do you remember that?" So yeah! The song has very meaningful place in her heart. And then Saturday we saw Top Gun Maverick on IMAX and with the same sounds in the opening, it was EPIC! The whole film was well done and after watching the interviews on the 30th anniversary Blu-Ray a few days before, you understand why they didn't make the film sooner. And don't forget! Penny is in the OG by mention, so her character is a great additional continuation in a round about way.

[@heavychevy4616]

one of the greatest guitar players of our generation! thank u fellas!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Steve’s a legend, no doubt.

[@philbrown1474]

I went to see Billy Idol in concert a few years ago. Let me rephrase : I went to see Idol and equally as much S Stevens. I was not disappointed with my choice to attend. Stevens is up there as far as guitarists.

[@ravinthered]

What I remember about The Top Gun Theme was that it hit right in the emotions. It's amazing, the guitar really gets me everytime. I didn't expect it from this movie. Like Take My Breathe Away the music was amazing. Also, The Billy Idol/Steve Stevens concert I attended in the late 80s is still one of the craziest I've been to. Left there bruised, soaked and my clothes hanging on by a thread. Good Times.

[@johnshields6852]

I'm Steve's age, R&R was huge part of my life, still listening, he's got such a natural way with the guitar, like it's part of him. It's not always about speed or picking, he's got a great ear, a feel for sound, he's an artist who happens to use guitar for a brush.

[@blazeeisner9620]

Adam! I should say Brother but you’re my sons age. I enjoyed what Brother Steve said about the inspiration for picking up the guitar 🎸. The whole world saw the Beatles in February of 1964 on the Ed Sullivan Show and boys of all ages picked up a guitar 🎸. My Dad bought me a Silvertone acoustic at Sears. The action was horrible but I had a guitar 🎸. All I ever learned was 3 chords. But I had a great time with my music. It came full circle ⭕️ for me when I came home one night and my 13&14 year old sons were in the garage; Colin on his Drum kit and Jesse on his Strat playing Zeppelins Tangerine 🍊. Those boys are now 45&46. Great interview. Happy Memorial Day. God bless

[@MrPhilm00r]

I love seeing Stevie on here so many times. I have been playing guitar for a long time now, and he has always been one of my inspirations. His contributions to music over the years have been much more significant than most people realize. I'm happy to hear you give him so much praise because he certainly deserves it.

[@btchhopperou812]

Happy Memorial Day EVERYONE!!!

[@viper2148]

Man, PoR subscribers are QUICK.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Happy Memorial Day!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Same to you!

[@btchhopperou812]

@@viper2148 WE are quite a loyal group- Adam is just an honest host that always goes that extra mile to keep his audience waiting for his next vid drop. This guy works even when he's sick or in pain, is consistent as always and keeps 'em coming. Stick around if you're new... if you grew up in the 70's, 80's and 90's, you will enjoy it here! Peace

[@viper2148]

@@btchhopperou812 yup, I appreciate him pulling me out of the news cycle.

[@leoborganelli3558]

Pure Class! Thank you Steve Stevens for making my teen years so great!

[@ProfessorofRock]

I'm right there with ya!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

For inspiring so many future guitarists.

[@kirbymarchbarcena]

The '80s got so many wonderful soundtracks that are memorable.

[@blazerhawkdarren68]

That guitar solo is more fitting for Top Gun than for Fletch. Great decision

[@ProfessorofRock]

For sure.

[@Elwaves2925]

I love the theme from Fletch (and the movies) but that guitar solo really wouldn't sit well with it. Much better with Top Gun.

[@joeblow9210]

His guitar playing and solos are amazing. The songs are fantastic, the soundtrack of our lives.

[@generalZee]

Steve Stevens seems like a legitimately cool guy. A legitimate legend who seems humble, reflective, and fun.

[@chrisprovenzano2978]

Billy Idol & Steve Stevens deserve a spot in the RRHOF.

[@kerch-e]

I love the " I kind of forgot about it " line. You have to create a lot of epic stuff on a regular basis to be able to forget such greatness . I really loved that interview, and it's great to have an interviewer who has enough knowledge and love for the music to get the most out of the interviewee.

[@Elwaves2925]

This anthem is one of my favourite all time instrumentals. Loved it from the moment I first heard it. Everything from the quiet opening, the slow build up to that great guitar. It might be perfection. Not only is it in the sequel, it's at the start again in a straight recreation of that iconic opening. Loved the movie and I'd highly recommended if you like the original. The flying scenes are really something special.

[@ProfessorofRock]

I am seeing it today! I binged Stranger Things this weekend. Great 80s celebrations! Thanks Elwaves!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

@@ProfessorofRock I did the same thing! I started watching it and at first thought Eleven was Will with a magical spell! 😅

[@Elwaves2925]

@@ProfessorofRock I'm taking my time a little bit with Stranger Things but loving it so far. If you want more 80's nostalgia, check out KOSMusic who just released an 80's horror inspired synthwave album. For free. It's good stuff.

[@ProfessorofRock]

@@Elwaves2925 Will do. Thanks!

[@Five_by_Five9340]

@@ProfessorofRock I’m loving that Kate Bush’s “Running Up That Hill” is currently the top search on iTunes. She is so underrated!

[@jimdawson2549]

This was the first time I ever got goosebumps from a theme song. Top Gun is the best soundtrack of the 80s. Does Days of Thunder count as a 80s movie because that was awesome to but came out in 90?The new movie is OUTSTANDING go see it.

[@muse9050]

Loved this song and album and all the collaborations with Patrick Leonard have produced my favourite ever pop songs .I love his arrangements and musicality ..there's a beautiful exquisite melancholy in his piano and musical genius.i love it

[@stuartewoldt1513]

I took Steve Stevens for granted in the 80's but as I progressed in music I was amazed at what he could do and how creative he is. Great interview

[@dont_follow5777]

Can't think of Billy without Steve, can't think of Steve without Billy. I was not a big fan of Top Gun, except for the Berlin track. I've been a Berlin fan since "The Metro" So this opens my ears more to the rest of the soundtrack.

[@darrengreen2644]

I love that Adam expresses his and our appreciation to the artists for what they do and how they effected our lives, they deserve to hear that.. So well done Adam and Fletch is amazing

[@kyliepollert8341]

I'm not a huge Tom Cruise fan, but the first "Top Gun" is a classic, and I can't wait to see the second. It looked really good, from the previews!

[@ProfessorofRock]

I'm going to see it today.

[@elainehill6504]

@@ProfessorofRock It's definitely a love letter to the first movie.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I hope to get some of my teacher friends at school to watch Top Gun: Maverick this week!

[@pauljazz818]

I love Steve Stevens’ flamenco work. Totally amazing playing.

[@MaxPowerHouse23]

Two words for that theme song: Hauntingly Magical! 🖖 & 🤘 Max Power

[@johnnydollar666]

Man... Fletch... Top Gun... Harold Faltermeyer (Axel F)... Rebel Yell... The 80s were f'n wicked AWESOME 👍🏻

[@teazzer44]

Steve Stevens.. True Atomic Playboy he's when hell of a shredder !!!

[@Kalepherion]

Steve Stevens is a world-class guitarist. If you question this, listen to his album "Flamenco a GO GO"

[@ia5662]

Steve is such a gracious guy - I love watching his guitar rig rundowns. Excellent tone and melodic sensibility - he wrote riffs that are SO memorable. I think those are true geniuses of our time. Sure, there are plenty of guys with maybe a little more facility with their instrument, but they never wrote a damn thing that people remember. His riff on that soundtrack is the most powerful part of the movie - it elevates the entire thing, the plot and the acting when it's inserted at the perfect moments.

[@miyolinux]

Steve's guitar playing was (and is) just the epitome of... GUITARISM So many memorable riffs and leads... The guy was/is immeasurable. I was lucky enough to see him (in Billy's heyday) live. WOW!

[@alainlaferriere9383]

Steve Stevens is definitely an humble virtuoso guitarist with fantastic sounds and effects that make him so unique! His musical influence is phenomenal! He will always be one of my greatest guitar hero!

[@bikesnab1]

When this album came out, I checked it out. I was like you, kinda unimpressed, then I listened to it again, and again... each time gaining more appreciation for it. It is now in my top 25 favorite albums. Keep doing what you do. It's awesome. Thanks

[@SchardtCinematic]

I Love the Top Gun theme. But I also love the Iron Eagle soundtrack as well. So much great 80s music.

[@TheSlowoldman]

One Vision by Queen.... great song.... played by a Walkman in the movie....

[@SchardtCinematic]

@@TheSlowoldman That song and I'm Old Enough to Rock and Roll. Played during the Cesna and Motorcycle race between Notcher and Doug near the start of the film.

[@kellycranford3592]

That song/instrumental just resonates deep within your soul!! When you hear it, even to this day, you still feel it!!

[@TaskerStreete]

Introduced my 16yo Son to Top Gun last week, followed by a trip to see Maverick. Amazing film, Tony Scott would be proud.

[@lfd_eng9219]

Great theme song...my favorite of all time! Almost always cue it up when heading out on a business trip. Does get a bit dangerous when driving...you look down at the speedometer...and are like...crap...hope there isn't a cop around!!! Thanks Harold and Steve, awesome song!

[@jennyjenny4501]

My daughter and I are going to see Maverick today! I’ve been waiting for this moment for over 30 years! Have a great Memorial Day, Professor!

[@MyName-pl7zn]

Steve Stevens is definitely one of the most underrated creative and underappreciated guitarists of the 80s to be sure, great interview love the story of being surprised that he was going to win the Grammy. He was a trailblazer for rock and blazing guitar getting the award.

[@duromusabc]

This is a bit off topic but I remember the other top Gun type movie starring Chevy Chase called Deal Of The Century (1983) with Gregory Hines as the jet pilot - and the dog fight star wars style battle scene between the jet 🛩 flown by Gregory Hines’s character and the automated drone weapon And Clint Eastwood’s 1981 classic Firefox And Louis Gosset Jr in Iron Eagle (early 1986) The 80s decade had the best fighter jet 🛩 films indeed ! Great boyhood memories of mine ! It was awesome to be a boy in the 80s! Especially with HBO and movie theaters !

[@robster7316]

Cool and timely story, Adam! Steve sure knows how to rock. Great choice for the TG theme!

[@ProfessorofRock]

Thanks Robster! Have a great Memorial day!

[@pdmullgirl]

Steve is the man. And that hair!! Fantastic even today!! ❤️💜💚

[@psykomystro]

I love Steve Stevens... Thought he was more important than Billy Idol in Billy's band!!! Lol... But when I first saw the vid for this theme, it was Faltemeyer that started it off, I thought "yeah this is pretty cool, nice melody and all" and I had no idea Steve was on the track so I was ecstatic when Steve came in!!!... Steve does not get enough props as far as being on the list of greats. Thanks for the memories and the story Prof!!! 🤘

[@RC32Smiths01]

That is just so credible and amazing! Top Gun is an great movie, and to simply help contribute to many classics say it all. Appreciate the stories and history as always

[@ProfessorofRock]

Thanks RC32!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I haven’t watched it in a long time, so I need to relive the experience tonight! And then later this week I’m planning to watch Top Gun: Maverick and see if it lives up to my expectations.

[@charleyanne]

Thank you Adam, PoR for having me as an honorary producer for this segment. I know this wasn't about Billy Idol but I have to say, back in the 80's, I had to have hair just like his. Steve Stevens is an amazing guitarist that, in my personal opinion, doesn't get enough credit. I'm glad you did this & it coming out this weekend was perfect!!! Thanks for another great interview with someone that helped mold the soundtrack of my life!! ✌️🇺🇲

[@montrealsports29]

Billy Idol was great in the '80s, but he probably wouldn't have been as great as he was if Steve Stevens hadn't been his guitarist because his work gave those songs something extra that just jumped out of the speakers and grabbed you. I remember once hearing Eyes Without A Face on the radio and the station cut the song off right before Stevens' blistering guitar part in the middle of the song and I thought, "How the hell can you play that song on the radio and not play the best part of it?"

[@mikemcgown6362]

It's always great to hear from an artist that's been recognized for doing what they love over doing it for the money. This video comes at the right time, my wife and I are going to see Top Gun Maverick tonight. The original film had a great impact in my life. Instead of a Navy airman I wanted to be in the air force. Seeing the aircraft maneuvers got my adrenaline pumping! The guitar solo really fit! Instead of flying (because of my eyesight) I got into building fast cars. "I feel the need, the need for speed' got me in a lot of trouble! Oh the memories! Looking forward to seeing the new movie and hoping to hear some more good music on the soundtrack!

[@nddst77]

Always good to see a great musical artist can also be an amazing person. Wow. Even more respect for Steve Steven’s after your interviews.

[@anotherwaytafkash]

the top gun anthem 1986 ...... Faltermayer/Stevens ..... GOOSEBUMPS!!!!!!!! this is a true 80ies hymn.....made to stand the test of time ......

[@trinaq]

Heck yes! Whenever that famous theme music is played, typically over shots of planes, you can't help but think of the film that made it well known! 😎 ✈️

[@Elwaves2925]

Don't forget they need to be silhouetted at sunrise too. All I need is that bell at the start. Just the one, nothing more and I'm instantly there.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Totally!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I ALWAYS think of the theme song to Top Gun whenever I see planes.

[@ProfessorofRock]

@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 Same!

[@williambenner5550]

Steve is such a underrated guitarist for that time period. However he is quite remarkable, with my favorite jam of his being Eyes Without A Face! I just love his work on that song.

[@SomedaySam]

Such a great moment in rock guitar history. The sound and the solo are epic. Its unfortunate he wasn't asked to play the guitar parts on the song in the new movie's version.

[@gibblespascack1418]

Steve played this during the Whiplash smile tour as an intro before the song "Don't need a gun". That was a great concert in RPI Fieldhouse and later in the tour at Saratoga performing arts center.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Don't need a gun is really good song. Steve's playing is immaculate

[@gibblespascack1418]

@@ProfessorofRock I love the Spanish guitar solo from the intermission on the Devils Playground Tour. When Steve is working on music, it is fabulous, without Steve, you get Cyberpunk. OK music but it is missing something. Then when Devils Playground came out, things were back on track with Steve and power cords.

[@kudukilla]

I saw that tour (Houston Summit) and totally forgot about that. Thanks for that trip down memory lane.

[@bigcountry5045]

iv said for YEARS that Mr. Steve Stevens is one of the most underrated guitar gods of our life time .... the music hes written and co-written, and created are truly a soundtrack to our lives ! you hear about guys like Steve Vai, Eddie Van Halen, Ted Nugent, and countless others but you hardly ever hear people talk about Steve Stevens and is truly a shame because he belongs right up there with the greatest of the greats !!!!!

[@jimmyburns4681]

Greatest guitar solo EVER

[@mournblade1066]

"Heavy Metal" by Don Felder, part of the soundtrack to the animated classic _Heavy Metal_.

[@jbowen791]

Steve Stevens, absolute legend!

[@mattygee5000]

Steve Stevens is the best guitarist the fewest people know the name of.. seeing a Billy Idol show with Steve is really a double bill...

[@DangerClose13E]

I saw Topgun Maverick with my kids Friday. I was expecting some "woke" crap but was pleasantly surprised with the job Tomcat did. Everyone will enjoy it. Go see it if you haven't.

[@robertgomez5248]

I actually didn't want to go see it because I was sure it was going to be woke. Great movie.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Poll: What is your pick for the greatest movie soundtrack song of the 80s?

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

“Don’t You Forget About Me” by Simple Minds. Breakfast Club. A movie that should never, EVER be remade.

[@johnathandavis3693]

Simple Minds "Don't You (forget about me)" From "The Breakfast Club". THAT is what the 80's sounded like...

[@Five_by_Five9340]

“The Girl Gets Around “ by Sammy Hagar in Footloose! I still jam out to that now (and embarrass my kids)! Same soundtrack also has Bonnie Tyler’s “Holding Out for a Hero “ which is also amazing.

[@catherine6653]

Footloose Soundtrack & Oh What A Feeling, Irene Cara - Flash Dance

[@eightiesmusic1984]

If You Leave OMD

[@darryldagoy2975]

I bought the Top Gun album just to listen that one song TOP GUN ANTHEM. Since bought only a BASF Cassatt tape and wound it countless times until the tape was ruined. But now it was now over the internet. The late Eddie Van Halen happened to be my idol and tend to forget about him when Steve Steven's fires up this classic.

[@robertweldon7909]

There is the key phrase concerning paying guitar, at about 18:35, "you can express yourself". Oh how true that is. Once YOU determine your sound and style, your expression emerges, slowly at first, but it grows. Top Gun is one of the best movies ever, to me, partly because I'm a Navy man and worked on airplanes. My favorite scene is where Maverick flips off the Russian pilot, canopy to canopy. ;-)

[@Astronomater]

Happy to hear some love for Harold Faltermeyer's soundtracks. I don't think they get enough attention.

[@dalekidd420]

My favorite story regarding Steve Stevens came from an interview he did way back in the late 80's where he was asked, similarly to your own question, why he decided to be a guitar player. His answer at the time was a bit funnier. He simply pointed out that he was too small to be a sports star of any kind, so he had to figure out some OTHER way to get laid...

[@slamtilt01]

I am so glad you thanked Steve. He really deserves it.

[@daveblankenship4211]

That was an awesome piece of rock and roll content. A magnificent song and rendition. God gave us rock and roll

[@krisg3984]

Steve brought up so many good memories : that part about the ‘80s not being what they show today...& the FM breaking through with 10 minute songs... love it. That things (effects, stunts etc.) were Not CGI but very good art forms and hard work. So much and so many new, fantastic things happening it was hard to be exposed to them all. The bands, the genres,the gems ! Steve’s guitar was sonic and reverberated across the airwaves always reminds me of summers.

[@jezmez68]

"Danger Zone" and "Take My Breath Away" were on MTV ad nauseum, and those were the songs played on the radio. Until this video, I didn't even know this song existed. I mean, I recognize it from the movie, but it is just a huge slice of cheese. Glad Steve won a Grammy. One of my favorite 80s guitarists. I actually thought the best movie song of '86 was "Take It Easy" by Andy Taylor. He also had another Steve playing on that song...Steve Jones of the Sex Pistols.

[@ethansaunders995]

Stevens always look so cool when he plays.

[@runrob1]

Thank you Professor

[@greggh.748]

Love hearing about how songs were written. Especially the 80s rock songs. Keep up the great work, Professor! You got awesome interviewer talent. "if you remembered the 80s, you didn't live the 80s" Thanks for the "new" memories. ROCK ON!

[@SteveSpikes]

Out of curiosity, have you ever thought of tracking the best song featured on an '80s soundtrack? This may have to be an extra long countdown. The '80s are a huge decade, after all, when it comes to movie soundtracks.

[@kennyleejohnson5253]

Never knew he did that. Steve Steven’s is amazing!!

[@camaronshoultz6137]

It is one of the most iconic movie songs of all time. It was in fact in the new movie and I’m glad it was. One of the greatest soundtracks ever and is just as good today as it was 36 years ago

[@mmartian1969]

I was going in to my senior year the summer top gun came out and was already planning on joining the Air Force. That whole sound track was played many times in my car when driving around.

[@eltronics]

Thanks Steve for the WNEW-FM shoutout. You said what I knew growing up, that station was groundbreaking. Great guitar solo, very memorable in the movie, loved it.

[@DocRaunchy]

The greatest thing about Steve Stevens and Billy Idol is that they are playing still Live Music on the biggest level. I highly recommend to check them out on the upcoming tour dates.

[@drakulie]

The Professor, building an encyclopedia of music history. 👍

[@RollieFingers59]

The Professor does it yet again !! Guitar geek since I was 12 - He’s a killer player and seems like a good dude!!!

[@howardgarrett7865]

What a great a story Steve seems like a great guy

[@gnrnando88]

If you really would like to see S. Stevens shinning as an incredible musician, check it out his work with Atomic Playboys, Vince Neil and mostly his solo albums playing flamenco. A true guitar hero!

[@nathanwanner..44]

Yes he is a great guitarist very underrated

[@nikimartin1633]

Really enjoyed this interview and Steve Stevens, what a cool guy!!

[@tfairborne501]

Got to meet Steve once. What a cool dude super nice

[@heathday7360]

Way underrated guitarist!! Cool guy!

[@adolfsson2705]

GREAT HISTORY AGAIN...OST top gun the best..STEVE on the élite top guitar players also with Billy Idol one of the Best duos all Time..AND now with my Babe Jennifer Conelly GREAT..! THANKS Billy for your countribution for TOP GUN

[@kennethjenkins3972]

Love this interview. I was in the navy when they were filming that at NTC San San Diego and Miramar, great movie and I honestly never knew it was Steve on the guitar and I e always been a huge Billy Idol fan so it was great to find that connection as well as “Dirty Dianna” never knew that was him either

[@CasualSpud]

I still remember hearing his guitar work with Robert Palmer (You're Amazing).. Distinct style for sure

[@terkish]

I saw Top Gun in 86 while home on leave from the Army at our local art deco theater. I specifically remember the first notes of this riff blowing everyone away on their newly installed dolby surround sound system. This movie did so much for me personally. It ushered out the bad eighties hair and made the military haircut popular... which at the time I was required to keep. Until then that haircut made me stand out as a military guy in a post-Vietnam era before it was cool to be one. It also gave us the $24 vhs tape which allowed people to start owning the movies they loved, replacing the $80-$100 price tag before where only rental stores could really afford them.